Canada – worth a visit this Autumn
Sian Pages – Travel Planner
‘Season of mists and mellow fruitfulness’, John Keats poem ‘To Autumn’ sums up why this particular season is so special, and travelling in autumn is an ideal time to enjoy the splendour of this beautiful season and Canada happens to be one of the best places to do this.
However, Canada is absolutely stunning to visit all year around, so if you are planning a trip to the land of the maple, then why not take a look at our handy blog to see what you can look forward to seeing in autumn?
When is the best time to visit Niagara Falls?
This iconic landmark is stunning throughout the seasons, but in our opinion, the best time to visit Niagara Falls is during the autumn months. The colours are spectacular and is a bountiful display of shades of brown, red, gold and orange.
The Falls are also less busy than throughout the height of summer and the weather is still warm, but not too hot which can be an advantage. September and October are great times to visit, to enjoy some of the local events and festivals, including the Niagara Wine Festival which celebrates the local wine grape harvest.
However, if you are visiting Niagara Falls in autumn, it is worth being mindful that the Canadian side of the Falls closes for Canadian Thanksgiving which takes place on the second Monday of October (in 2019, this is on Monday 14th October).
When is the best time to visit the Rocky Mountains?
The Rocky Mountains in Alberta are best visited throughout September and October when the days are generally still warm and dry, but the bustling crowds have dispersed and you can hike and take photos without lots of people around you.
If you are feeling active, head over to Lake Louise and Lake Agnes, or for a slightly slower pace, walk on over to Johnston’s Canyon. The daytime temperatures are slightly cooler in the autumn, making it easier for hiking.
Where are the best cities to visit Canada in autumn?
Canada is beautiful throughout the year, but autumn is a truly spectacular time of year to visit. From the treasure trove that is Algonquin Park in Ontario to the forest of Prince Edward Island. If you are looking for a city break to Canada, choose from Quebec, Vancouver, Toronto and more. All of which offer a dazzling mixture of culture, entertainment and history.
What are the best things to do in Vancouver in autumn?
Take a stroll in Stanley Park where you can view spectacular views of the mountains, wildlife and more from its famous Seawall. If you love to get closer to the flora and fauna, a visit to the VanDusen Botanical Garden is an absolute must. If culture is more your thing, you won’t be disappointed in Vancouver – from the Vancouver Art Gallery to the Museum of Anthropology, you can easily explore Vancouver’s rich cultural history and art via the intriguing exhibitions.
What is the best time of year to visit Toronto?
Film buffs flock over to the Toronto Film Festival in September to see world premieres, attend galas and watch the stars walk the red carpet. Toronto even has its own Oktoberfest where you can enjoy some sauerkraut and beer (wearing lederhosen is optional!)
Niagara Falls is only a 90-minute drive from Toronto, making this an ideal base in which to see the glorious Falls. The Royal Ontario Museum, Casa Loma and the Art Gallery of Ontario all need to be on your ‘Toronto must-visit’ list. The Toronto Islands are just a short boat ride away from downtown Toronto and this destination makes a great day trip, especially for families.
When is the best time to visit Québec City?
Beautiful and compact, Québec City is a charming city with amazing views at every turn. The historic district of Old Québec (which is a UNESCO World Heritage site) is one of the main attractions and is the only walled city in the whole of North America and Canada. The Jacques-Cartier National Park is an ideal place to visit in autumn, where you can canoe, kayak and even camp in the valley surrounded by forest.
The best way to explore the cobbled streets of Québec City is on foot, so leave the heels at home and don a pair of comfortable shoes. The old part of the town has an impressive array of historic churches, monuments and more that gives you a real insight as to what a fortified French colonial city would look like. For even more history, pay a visit to the Musée de la Civilisation which has a fascinating selection of both rotating and permanent exhibits.
Autumn is an ideal time to visit as Québec City offers the best temperatures that the region has to offer. The delicious flavours of autumn are showcased via the tasty wines and ciders that are being produced in the region- there are 22 wineries to check out via the Brome-Missisquoi Wine Route. Cin Cin!
What should I do in Montreal?
Montreal charms its visitors throughout all the seasons, but more so in autumn. It is the best time to explore this lively city famed for its stunning architecture, fantastic entertainment and stellar cultural hot spots. From fun-filled festivals and vibrant nightlife to wonderful restaurants and great shopping, Montreal has it all. With nearly 100 festivals a year, Montreal has garnered a reputation for being a festival power house.
There are lots of great things to do in Montreal and no visit to this city is complete without going to an ice hockey game. If you love to shop, then Montreal won’t disappoint as it is home to a great range of branded stores, markets and vintage shops.
Want More Information?
If you’d like more information on any of the trips noted above, or would like to discuss other travel plans you have in mind, get in contact with our in-house travel consultant, Sian Pages, on sian@longhurst.co.uk.
Sian will be more than happy to spend time talking you through your options; remembering her service is delivered at no cost to clients and professional connections of Longhurst.
Happy Adventures!
